"Consciousness" is a term that is often thrown around in discussion. Yet there are dozens of definitions of what that word means. The most useful one for neuroscience researchers is this: our awareness of our inner experiences.

This definition includes a method of self-transformation. If we tune into our inner experiences, we build our awareness. Building our awareness increases our consciousness.

To prime us for this method, we can first note qualities of our inner experiences.

The 3 most common inner experiences when in a relaxed resting state:

Visualization (inner seeing)

Inner speech

Sensory awareness (to a lesser extent)

We can deepen our awareness by recognizing and working with these inner experiences.

Different people can be more oriented toward one form of inner experience over another. Have trouble visualizing? Try listening to your inner voices and dialogues (inner speech), or just become more aware of your body’s sensations (sensory awareness). This approach to mindful self-awareness is one of the few proven ways that you can gain better control over your cognitive and emotional states.

You also develop a more accurate perception of your inner state of being. The social awareness centers of the brain (insula and anterior cingulate) get stimulated by any form of contemplative meditation.

The result: greater empathy, compassion, and inner peacefulness.

Check out Mark Waldman's free 6 Days to Enlightenment email series for information on how you can access enlightened states often and easily.